Back to: Map Your Resources

Much of the gear and equipment used in kelp farming originates from the fishing industry. Having access to a fishing boat and basic fishing gear, like lines, buoys, and anchors, is a big advantage when starting a farm. This is part of the reason kelp farming has taken root in places like Maine, Alaska, and other parts of the country with strong maritime traditions. Most array systems will work with a variety of similar gear types. The more you can find ways to repurpose or retrofit assets you already have, the lower your startup costs will ultimately be. And, we highly encourage you to get creative in sourcing the gear for your farm.

There’s a long list of tools and equipment that will come in handy when running a farm, but in general, to get started ocean farming, you’ll need:

If you don’t already own or have access to these items, don’t lose heart.

You’ll need to purchase them at some point, but it’s still possible to acquire them fairly cheaply. And you don’t need the top-of-the-line model. In fact, we recommend looking for used gear. Sometimes research institutions or commercial fishermen will sell used lines, buoys, or other gear at the end of the season. Keep an eye on Facebook Marketplace and craigslist in your region, and check the Bulletin Board in the Community.

GreenWave Tip

The Farm Design Tool can help you estimate your startup budget based on the type of farm you intend to build. Start designing your farm here.